The world of music has lost all-time big.
Jeff Beck, considered one of the most talented and respected guitarists in history, has died, according to a statement posted on his official social media account.
He is 78 years old.
“On behalf of his family, it is with great sadness and grief that we share the news of Jeff Beck’s Passing,” the statement opened.
“After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he passed away peacefully yesterday.
“The family asks for privacy as they process this incredible loss.”
Beck rose to fame in 1965 after taking over for Eric Clapton as guitarist for The Yardbirds.
The following year, he formed his own group, The Jeff Beck Group with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood and went on to release a pair of albums, Truth and Beck-Ola.
Beck was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 as part of the Yardbirds and was inducted. again in 2009 as a solo artist.
An eight-time Grammy winner, Beck earned his first award in 1985 for best rock instrumental performance for “Escape.”
He went on to win the category five times.
Last year, Beck toured with Johnny Depp, after the pair recorded a cover album titled “18”.
“They’re really good friends,” a source told People Magazine of Depp and Beck.
“They are very close, and they were even closer last summer when they were on tour.
“The disease is very fast and everything has gotten worse over the last few weeks.”
Depp was there the night” by Jeff’s bedside” along with “several other rock stars” before Beck’s death, the same celebrity gossip outlet reported.
In reaction to Beck’s death, Rod Stewart wrote on Twitter that Beck “is one of the few guitarists who when I play live will listen to me sing and respond.”
“Jeff, you’re the greatest, my man,” he added.
KISS bassist and co-frontman Gene Simmons called Beck’s death “heartbreaking,” also stating:
“No one plays guitar like Jeff. Please get hold of the first two Jeff Beck Group albums and the big ones. RIP.”
Originally from England, Beck is survived by his wife Sandra.